Virginia Fortune Ryan, Countess of Airlie, a prominent figure in the British royal household, has passed away at the age of 91. Known for her unique position as an American-born Lady of the Bedchamber to Queen Elizabeth II, Lady Airlie served the monarchy with unwavering dedication for nearly five decades.
Born on February 9, 1933, in Mayfair, London, Virginia came from a wealthy American family with ties to Wall Street and high society. Her grandfather, Thomas Fortune Ryan, had amassed a considerable fortune in various industries, leaving an estate valued at over $200 million upon his death in 1928.
Lady Airlie's early life was marked by privilege and social connections. She attended the prestigious Brearley School in New York City and made her debut in society at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in December 1950. This event, attended by notable figures including King Peter of Yugoslavia, marked her entry into the upper echelons of social circles on both sides of the Atlantic.
In 1952, Virginia married Lord Ogilvy, who later became the 13th Earl of Airlie. Their wedding at St Margaret's, Westminster, was a grand affair attended by members of the British royal family. The bride wore a gown designed by the renowned Greek fashion designer Jean Dessès, reflecting her sophisticated taste and international connections.
Lady Airlie's association with the royal family deepened when she was appointed Lady of the Bedchamber to Queen Elizabeth II in 1973. In this role, she accompanied the monarch on numerous official engagements and overseas tours. Her American background proved particularly useful during state visits from U.S. presidents, including George Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.
"Lady Airlie's discretion and loyalty have been invaluable to the Crown."
Throughout her life, Lady Airlie was actively involved in charitable work and arts patronage. She served as a trustee for several prestigious institutions, including the Tate Gallery, the National Gallery in London, and the National Galleries of Scotland. Her commitment to the arts extended to her role as a board member of the American Museum in Bath, where she was remembered fondly for her "direct, honest and lovable manner."
Lady Airlie's dedication to her royal duties continued until the end of Queen Elizabeth II's reign in September 2022. Her final public appearance was at the Coronation of King Charles III, where she accompanied her husband, who arrived in a wheelchair wearing the robes of the Order of the Thistle.
Despite facing health challenges in her later years, Lady Airlie maintained her characteristic resilience and zest for life. Her passing marks the end of an era for the British royal household, leaving behind a legacy of service, discretion, and unwavering loyalty to the Crown.
Lady Airlie is survived by her six children, who will undoubtedly carry on her remarkable legacy of public service and dedication to the arts.